New Mexico Renaissance Celtic Festival returns to Edgewood for expanded two-weekend run

EDGEWOOD — The Kingdom is preparing to burst to life in the East Mountains as the annual New Mexico Renaissance Celtic Festival returns to Wildlife West Nature Park for an expanded two-weekend run beginning this Saturday.

The immersive historical fantasy event will span March 28-29 and April 4-5, operating from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily at the park, located at 87 N. Frontage Road.

Organizers have expanded the festival’s footprint, featuring more than 120 master craft vendors, multiple stages of entertainment, and traditional festival fare, including the return of the popular giant turkey legs.

“Her Royal Majesty Mary, Queen of Scots, invites one and all to revel in the merriment of the realm,” the festival announced, promising an array of characters ranging from “brave clansmen and gallant knights to mischievous minstrels.”

A standout feature for local families is the festival’s ticketing policy: Admission is completely free for children 17 and under when accompanied by a parent.

Each day of the festival will feature the Queen’s Tea at the Queen’s Court Gazebo, offering guests an elegant atmosphere with specialty teas and delicacies. On Saturday, March 28, the festivities will extend into the evening with the Queen’s Royal Ball, a formal, elaborately costumed dance running until 10 p.m.

With the festival’s second weekend coinciding with Easter, Sunday, April 5, will feature three free, age-separated Golden Egg Hunts. The hunts will be introduced by a royal herald in medieval costume, with toddlers starting at 12:45 p.m., kids ages 5-9 at 1:20 p.m., and tweens going at 2 p.m. Each hunt will include a special golden prize egg.

The 2026 event will also incorporate a celebration of the Route 66 Centennial, honoring the historic highway that runs straight through the community.

Attendees are reminded that outside food and drink are prohibited. While service dogs on a leash are permitted, no other pets are allowed on the zoo property. On-site ATMs will be available.

Tickets are currently on sale. For more information or to purchase passes, attendees can visit www.nmrenfest.net.